Of all the islands in the Samui area, it is those in Muko Ang Thong Marine National Park that score highest for sheer beauty and excursion potential. Located 3 1 km. west of Samui, the park covers more than a hundred sq. km. and comprises a group of some 40 lovely steep—sided limestone islands fringed with forest. Their shores are dotted with sandy coves and limestone caves, while the lush interiors are home to a wealth of flora and fauna.
The name translates as “golden basin”, and this is indeed a rich ground for exploration. Mainly because it was a preserve of the Royal Thai Navy and so closed to the public until 1980, when it was declared a marine national park, Ang Thong has managed to preserve its unspoilt character to an exceptional degree.